Hope Is Real!

Five Days and Not Counting...

2012-01-22T21:41:00.001-05:00

This is the fifth day in a row that I have not been depressed! Not that I'm counting or anything... I'm trying not to make a big deal out of it, because I don't want to be too disappointed when a day of depression comes again. One undoubtedly will-depression, as one of my therapists keeps on telling me, is a recurring disease. He keeps telling me that, so that when I start feeling depressed

December 2011 Books

2012-01-15T22:55:00.000-05:00

Vampire Kisses 8 - Cryptic Cravings by Ellen Schreiber - This book was okay. Raven is excited that Jagger and friends are going to build a gothic nightclub in her own club, but she's afraid that it's going to attract unwanted attention to Alexander. I know what her concerns are, but frankly, I found her to be a worrywort. I just wanted Raven to have fun and enjoy herself, but she kept

New Year's Resolutions and Blueberry Pie

2012-01-05T00:22:00.000-05:00

First off, I am sorry that I haven't written in a while. One of my new year's resolutions is to blog more often, which is going to be tested as I going to be living at a friend's house while she's away for about a month and her internet isn't currently working. I'm going to try blogging at places with free wifi, but I cannot guarantee anything. I will be glad when my life gets back into its

November Books 2011

2011-12-04T21:59:00.001-05:00

Vampire Kisses 7: Love Bites by Ellen Schreiber A book so forgettable that I had forgotten everything about it until I went to the author’s site, so that I could remember its name. Alas, the girl I work with loves this series and so I am condemned to read book after book from it. Fortunately, we only have a few more books left in the series to read. Alexander’s vampiric best friend, Sebastian,

Sweet Dreams are Made of These...

2011-11-25T19:36:00.001-05:00

One Friday a month, I attend a "Dreams" group. We're a group of women who each have some kind of big goal and we meet to share what we've accomplished and to receive feedback about what else we could do. We meet at L'Madeleine restaurant. I went a few weeks ago and even though I had already eaten, I purchased two cute, little pastries. To tell you the truth, they were a little bland, but at

Social Justice & Spiritual Events in Atlanta

2011-11-19T20:03:00.001-05:00

"God calls us to some things we cannot do alone." This is from the Regional Council of Churches of Atlanta Church Action eNewsletter (RCCAtl.org) All of these events have to do with social justice, feminism, spirituality, world healing, or World AIDS day, which is on Thursday, December first. 1. Unity North Atlanta is hosting the Tibetan Buddhist Monks Nov 27-Dec 4. They will create the

October Books

2011-11-18T20:12:00.001-05:00

I Hate You-Don’t Leave Me: Understanding the Borderline Personality by Jerome J. Kreisman and Hal Straus – I recently underwent psychological testing and while it did NOT say I have BorderlinePersonality Disorder (BPD), it did say that I have a lot of BPD traits. And I mean a lot, so I decided to read up on it. This book is considered the leading reference for helping people understand BPD.

Godde does not delight in anyone's death!

2011-10-31T20:24:00.000-04:00

Have you ever read a passage that just electrified you? That upon reading it, just sent a shiver of electricity down your spine, because you knew it to be true? A few weeks ago, I was reading Ezekiel 18, since I was thinking of writing a sermon and that chapter was part of the lectionary. I did end up writing a sermon, which I will publish later. However, it did not get used, as I got sick

September Books

2011-10-05T23:26:00.000-04:00

This book is a humorous take on the now famous fairytale about the princess that kisses a frog prince and ends up turning into a frog herself. It’s written with lots of humor and the girl I read it to loved it, but I wasn’t wild about it. It lacked depth and even though it was located in the “teen” section, it seemed more like a book for preteens or younger. Not that a book for preteens

If I Were a Spice...

2011-09-26T21:37:00.019-04:00

If I were a spice, I'd be nutmeg. One, you can put some in pancake batter and the pancakes will taste marvelous. Two, I seem to be adding diagnosis to my list everyday. Lately, I have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I am both overwhelmed by this diagnosis and relieved-overwhelmed, because it's a pretty major mental disorder with some really heavy stigma attached to it,

Enriching Recovery, Spiritual, and Social Justice Events in Atlanta

2011-08-26T22:16:00.008-04:00

Since this blog addresses spirituality, social justice through feminism, and mental illness, I've included all these events in Atlanta that have to do with these topics. The one I am really looking forward to are the ones about suicide prevention, as that is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. I will probably attend the vigil on September 6. "God calls us to some things we cannot do

July Books (Or Book, Rather...)

2011-08-21T22:28:00.005-04:00

I only read one book this July, but it was a great one. I was at my favorite used book store one day and I was at the counter when all of a sudden the thought occurred to me that I should look in the sci-fi section to see if they had any books by my favorite author, Octavia E. Butler and they actually did have a book that I hadn't previously read! This is the sequel to her book, "Wild Seed,"

National Relaxation Day!

2011-08-14T14:13:00.003-04:00

According to Facebook, tomorrow is National Relaxation Day. Sounds good to me! Unfortunately, tomorrow will probably not be so relaxing for me, so I am relaxing today. What do I listen to when I'm in my room and I want to relax? Usually classical music, like Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, or ancient chants. Here is some music for you to enjoy. I hope this music relaxed you,as much as it did

New Recovery Poetry

2011-08-10T22:17:00.005-04:00

My depression has lifted for the most part. Yay! When my depression first presented itself, I started writing poetry, but I felt the poetry was too dark for me to share with my followers. Fortunately, now that I am feeling more hopeful and am transforming my life, so my poetry has been transformed too. Here is some recent recovery poetry I would like to share: How Far How far am I willing to

Bone Sigh Art, A Review-Strength Must Come from Within

2011-07-17T10:08:00.003-04:00

When my friend and I took our mini-vacation to Asheville, we also visited the town of Black Mountain, NC. Black Mountain is an even smaller town than Asheville, but it is absolutely chock-full of artistic and folksy goodness and because we were under a time frame, we did not get to see all that we had planned. Oh, well... I guess that means we'll have to take another road trip!One of the best

My Views on Godde-A Need to Remember

2011-07-10T10:41:00.005-04:00

Before I get to the meat of this post, I'm going to warn you that I very well might move this blog to WordPress soon. I've heard they handle pictures much better and as you've probably noticed, my last post is having trouble with some very basic pictures. It's very frustrating, because I like to break events up with pictures, instead of spaces, as it adds more interest and is more fun. I'm also

I'm Back and So Are Tons of Recovery Events in Metro Atlanta! Even More Coming Soon!

2011-07-03T09:23:00.006-04:00

Two nights ago, I dreamed that I spent all night posting on my blog, so I knew that I was ready to begin posting again. I have many things to write about, but this one is simply a series of events that have to do with faith, social justice, and disability rights. They are all in Georgia, but remember-if any of you want to send an event that has to do with any of the themes of HopeIsReal! then

Patience is a Virtue!

2011-06-19T15:27:00.003-04:00

Please, my followers: Be patient! Eventually, I will post often again and hopefully it will be soon, but I cannot make any promises. I have gone through a really rough time and I have experienced some trauma. This has really affected me and I need to take a break in order to take care of myself. Monday I start intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) at Ridgeview. Fortunately, I am able to

"Easter People: Side B" - My Unedited Sermon on Feeling Depressed on Easter

2011-05-08T23:11:00.016-04:00

Last Sunday, I preached at my church and led most of the service. I think it went well, even though I overslept that Sunday and ended up writing the bulletin and the sermon in basically three hours. I felt bad and a little embarrassed about that and I was going to let the congregation know before I began my sermon, but I decided not to let them know after all. It's not that I wanted to

15 Sort of Random Things You May or May Not Know about Me

2011-04-24T05:24:00.005-04:00

Years ago there was a fad where people would list about fifteen things about them that no one else knew. I loved reading these lists, as they were usually pretty interesting and I desperately wanted to write one of my own, but my self-esteem was too low. I thought everybody that saw my list would think that I was too self-absorbed. Well, these kinds of things are pretty self-absorbed, but

2011 March Books

2011-04-17T11:26:00.007-04:00

First off, I promise that there will be other posts besides my monthly book reviews! I have been dealing with the stress of being a supervisor and getting up at 5 or 6am on a regular basis for the first time in my life. THEN, for almost two weeks I had a fibro flare-up and then I had a super stressful week that was topped off with terrible allergies. Whew! It is my hope that I will be able to

Jimmy's Stars - Recommended Reading about the Consequences of War

2011-03-13T15:04:00.005-04:00

I only finished one book this month! I’ve already finished three of the books I started in February, so rest assured there will many more books reviewed in March.Jimmy’s Stars by Mary Ann Rodman – An excellent book that really should have won awards, although the girl I read it to thought it was too sad. It’s set in WWII when Ellie’s older brother goes into the army. Ellie is eleven-years-old and

A New Job and A Sassy Girl

2011-02-27T23:29:00.004-05:00

Inside God, evil and the immediacy of sorrow and pain are transformed into something of value. Inside God, good is saved in relation to the whole.~Monica A. Coleman, Making a Way Out of No WayIt's been a while since I've posted a quote! I have been hinting lately that something good is happening in my life right now besides cooking good food, wearing cute clothes, and learning new coping skills,

Eating Disorders Awareness Week Event - Ridgeview's 7th Annual Candlelight Vigil

2011-02-22T11:32:00.003-05:00

Date: Thursday, February 24, 2011 Time: 6:15 – 7:30 p.m.Location: Ridgeview Institute, Day Hospital AuditoriumCost: Free. Candles will be provided.No pre-registration required. More Info: The Candlelight Vigil was originally developed by ANAD (Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders)as a nationwide grassroots event dedicated to eating disorderawareness and prevention. Women’s Services Alumni

Purple Potatoes?! Great Food and a Great IOOV Presentation

2011-02-12T12:45:00.008-05:00

In my last post, my dilemma was that I did not want my really happy mood to change just because of the number on the scale, so now it's time to tell you why I was so happy-I had been cooking some really good food! I don't like making the traditional one meat, a veg, and a carb dinner. I usually go for a one-dish dinner, but last Sunday I decided to do something a little unusual-a two-side meal.

Today's Eating Disorder Victory (Co-Starring My Cat, Arlo)

2011-02-06T21:58:00.008-05:00

Do you see the corner of that monstrous beast in the background? You know, the scale? Actually, by calling it names, I am giving it way too much power, which is something that I have done my entire life. Today I did something that normally would have really set me back in my recovery-I got on the scale. It told me that I had gained some weight, which is not surprising. Ever since I started taking

Event: Disability Day

2011-02-05T23:13:00.006-05:00

Date: February 24Time: 8a-2pWhere: The Capitol building in AtlantaWhat: A rally for disability awareness.Theme: Unlock the Doors to Real CommunitiesEvents: A rally; a visit from Governor Nathan Deal at the Capitol steps; and readings from "Waddie Welcome and the Beloved Community" by Tom Kohler, co-author, at the Freight DepotRegistration: Event SignupContact: 404-657-2121My Thoughts: I think

January Books

2011-02-04T12:06:00.004-05:00

Soul Feast: An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life by Marjorie Thompson – This book is about finding your own spiritual practice in order to enrich and deepen one’s Christian, spiritual life. I really liked the chapters on prayer and hospitality. I also discovered that I already have a spiritual practice, which is intentional reading (I forget the official term and the book is in my car…).

Disability is Natural!

2011-01-29T13:43:00.004-05:00

Today I attended an event about children with disabilities put on by FOCUS, Families Of Children Under Stress, and it was great. The first speaker, Joe Sarra of ChildKind, Inc., began his speech by making this point: disability is natural! Having a disability is not something to be feared or ashamed of, as it is a totally natural part of life. What a refreshing view on disability! To further

Life-Saving Art-Beethoven and Depression

2011-01-25T22:28:00.004-05:00

Exactly a week ago, I went to see the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and Chorus play Beethoven's Missa Solemnis. It was wonderful! I love seeing the symphony and sometimes my uncle, who is in the choir, gets me free tickets. I took a friend along and we actually saw a dress rehearsal. I had no idea what to wear-I know to dress up for the symphony, but I also know a dress rehearsal is a far less

More Events! NAMI Family-to-Family Class and Chair Yoga

2011-01-20T22:56:00.010-05:00

Where: Lawrenceville Presbyterian ChurchAddress: 800 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30046When: Will be every Thursday starting Feb. 3Time: 7-9:30pCost: FreeDetails: This is a class for caregivers, family members and friends of persons with a diagnosis of a mental illness. It is taught by trained family members and is where family members can learn about different mental illness, how to help

What Saved Me on Martin Luther King Jr.'s Day

2011-01-17T18:18:00.004-05:00

We had a snow storm last week, so I had the rare opportunity to show off my galoshes. Atlantans don't wear things like galoshes very often...Aren't they cute? I got them from Land's End at the Sears Outlet I worked at two years ago.This is our dog, Georgia. Her sweater matches my boots!Here is my car covered in snow:The snow was fun at first, but being stuck in the house for three days straight

Bright Colors in My New Year's Resolution and Cooking Beets

2011-01-12T15:39:00.007-05:00

You look like a Christmas ornament!A few weeks ago, someone said this to me and I thought it was funny! This is what I was wearing-what do you think?I just love bright colors! I used to dress this way all the time, but I have noticed that my clothes this year have been more boring, I guess you could say, than usual. Partly this is due to the fact that some of my funkier clothes no longer fit and

Psalm 52 - Lying and the Power of Truth

2011-01-10T14:20:00.006-05:00

I hear you, but I do not understand-Why are you so proud of your evilness?All that you say are lies.Your tongue is a knife,Which cuts at my heart.I bleed and yet you laugh-Your evilness is disgusting.But I have faith in Godde.The Holy One will dull your tongueAnd silence your mouth.She will remove you from your peopleAnd you will never harm me again.Then I shall be the one laughing,Delighting in

Events! The Fat Boy Chronicles and In Our Own Voice!

2011-01-07T21:02:00.009-05:00

I have decided that I'm going to have an 'events' area on the right side of my blog for events related to disability, gay rights, feminism, or simply recovery in general. Most of them will be in the Atlanta area. I had this on my other blog, Femi-Nation, when it was up and I don't know why I didn't think about doing it for this one! If you know of an event that goes along with the theme of my

December Books

2011-01-05T11:45:00.010-05:00

I had a lot more time this December, as I spent a lot of time just relaxing at my brother's house in Anacortes, Washington state. I'll talk more about that trip later.Cowboy Feng’s Space Bar and Grille by Steven Brust – I wasn’t wild about this book. The first person narration includes too many details and reminds me of the way I wrote when I was in middle school-not a good thing. I thought the

Don't Be Ignorant This Kwanzaa

2011-01-02T22:39:00.005-05:00

I'm gonna be honest here-my fibromyalgia is back and the pain is making it hard for me to concentrate long enough to write what I want to write. The pain isn't the worst I have ever felt by a long shot, but it's enough for me to lose my motivation and concentration. I am also really busy. I am trying to fight all these things and still write, but it does mean that my blog posts will probably be a

Sweet Honey in the Rock - Unity

2010-12-28T15:19:00.001-05:00

Happy Kwanzaa!Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Bring Beauty to the World This Christmas

2010-12-25T23:46:00.004-05:00

As we embrace beauty and novelty, remember our pasts and maintain faith, we are able to help reduce experiences of evil. The interaction of these multiple factors can offer life and beauty to the world. (59, Monica Coleman, Making A Way Out of No Way)I'd like to write a long post about love, togetherness, and great food, but my laptop is having internet issues, so I am forced to write this on my

New Year's Party for the Recovering Community

2010-12-22T10:46:00.004-05:00

New Year's Party for the recovering community-this means people with a diagnosis of a mental illness and/or have an addiction. Of course, there will be no alcohol, but there will be light refreshments.Cost:$5.00 donation requested at the doorWhere:Ridgeview Institute - 3995 South Cobb Drive Smyrna, GA 30080Time: Friday, December 31st 8:00pm to 12:30amI will most likely be there and if you're in

Spiritual Quote and Thoughts about Our World's Interdependence

2010-12-20T12:08:00.012-05:00

In fact, when any of us act and live as if our actions and decisions only affect us, when we deny the interdependence of the world, when we act as if we are not all connected and in need of each other, we produce evil. (55, Monica A. Coleman, Making a Way Out of No Way)I will leave you with a few thoughts...I unintentionally was thinking about this the other day when I was at the grocery store.

Psalm 51 - Clean Me, O Washer Woman Godde

2010-12-16T11:26:00.004-05:00

Washer Woman Godde,Wash me in the detergentOf Your love and mercy.Make me clean again-Rinse out my impurities.It is time for some truth telling-I know I have down wrong.I have stained the clothesThat You gave me.You are right to look uponMy blemishes in disgust.Again and again, I go out and sin.This is my truth,But Your truth isThat You can make me clean again.Scrub me, O Godde!Rub out my sin

Joy vs. Happiness

2010-12-14T23:35:00.005-05:00

At the A.A. meeting I went to last week, the topic was on what we do to stay happy. The person talking made it sound as if our goal is to try to be happy all the time, but I've got to voice my opinion that I think that is a shallow way of looking at life. Of course, I want to be happy most of the time, but I don't think simply being happy should be our life's goal. For one thing, happiness is

Spiritual Quote - "God is Calling Us"

2010-12-11T12:55:00.005-05:00

In every moment, in every context, God is calling us. (54, Monica A. Coleman, Making A Way Out of No Way)I think it is usually hard to hear Godde, because we have to be quiet and attentive to hear Godde's whisper in our hearts. At Christmas time we have to be especially careful to listen for Godde. If we are Christian, then we know deep down why we are celebrating that holiday, but the

Peace and Comfort in Food and Christ

2010-12-06T22:57:00.003-05:00

The days and nights are very cold now. I drink cup after cup of hot tea and hot chocolate in an effort to comfort myself from the cold. These cold days call for some comforting food too. I made a dish a few weeks ago that my mom hailed as "great comfort food," but when I tell you the main ingredient, you may be surprised! The dish is called, "puffed cauliflower cheese" and I made the recipe,

Spiritual Quote: On Making Decisions

2010-12-03T16:12:00.004-05:00

The possibilities we consider when we make decisions come from God. God orders these possibilities, urging us, or to use more process language, luring or persuading us, to choose those options that lead to a vision of the common good. (54, Monica A. Coleman, Making a Way Out of No Way)I really want to learn more about process theology. The next book I order from paperbackswap.com is going to

November Books

2010-12-01T11:07:00.006-05:00

The Tales of Beedle the Bard – J.K. Rowling – This is a collection of “classic” warlock fairy tales. I really enjoyed the stories, but I didn’t enjoy the explanatory notes after each tale. The notes are not really child friendly, because they read like a dry textbook. If you are reading this book to a child or preteen, then I would skip the notes. If you’re reading it for yourself, then the

Psalm 50 - Listen to Godde

2010-11-28T11:44:00.005-05:00

I, Godde, have words to sayAnd I will not be silent.In fact, if you listen,You will hear meFrom sunup to sundown.My words are eternal light.My words are for everyone:For the heavenly hostsAnd for all humankind.Gather round, all you righteous-All who are in relationship with me.Let me assure you-you are enough.You do not need to give up what gives you life.I love you and you are my beloved

Don't Worry-Eat Pineapple Beets Instead!

2010-11-24T22:59:00.005-05:00

Today I had a revelation. I was in the car and someone answered the phone when I thought they wouldn't. I had been worrying about what would happen if I couldn't get in touch with them and after the phone call, I had this epiphany: Maybe all my worrying isn't so necessary after all. Maybe everything will be alright. My revelation may have been inspired by my minister's sermon on the same subject

Spiritual Quote - The Way Evil is Overcome

2010-11-20T15:16:00.004-05:00

...one can conclude that evil is loss, and that it is overcome by the way we remember the past, the way that God remembers us and searches for the best in us, and through the vision for the common good that we can experience in God's calling. (53, Monica A. Coleman, Making a Way Out of No Way)

Eating Disorder Recovery and The Highland Games

2010-11-16T15:50:00.005-05:00

As you know, I attend an alcoholics anonymous group and one thing I often hear people say is that they are proud that they are alcoholic. They are proud, because they have worked the twelve steps and so have become a better person. I was thinking about this on my home from group and I realized that although I am not an alcoholic, I am proud that I am an eating disordered person in recovery. Being

Spiritual Quote of the Day and Finding Value Amidst My Anger

2010-11-12T12:38:00.005-05:00

God attempts to save what is lost and find value in every aspect of the world. (52, Making a Way Out of No Way, Monica Coleman)Right now I am having a very frustrating experience dealing with a harmful person. I really cannot get into the situation, but I will say that I was extremely angry this morning. But then some friends helped me realize that I am giving this person way too much power

My Sermon-When People in Power Don't Get "The Big Picture"

2010-11-09T11:10:00.009-05:00

This past Sunday I led the service at my church and preached. It felt good and I am proud of myself, although I was a little annoyed by how my voice started to get a little shaky towards the end. I spoke about a tough subject, but I didn't realize I was still that affected by the incident I was describing. I was also nervous, but the only way to get over nervousness is to keep putting yourself in

October Books

2010-11-05T22:36:00.005-04:00

Jake Reynolds: Chicken or Eagle? - Sara Leach – Honestly, I thought this book was sort of boring. I liked that the female character was strong and I know that it’s probably good for kids to have stories about boys that are not super macho, but with that being said, I just found Jake’s character to be very boring and uninteresting. The book wasn’t bad-just one that I would not recommend.And

Spiritual Quote - A Constructive Postmodern Theology Insists...

2010-11-01T11:11:00.002-04:00

That is, a constructive postmodern theology insists upon a belief in God, a cosmic purpose to our lives, and that it is possible, even advisable, to have a sacred relationship (as opposed to one of domination) with the earth. (50, Monica Coleman, Making a Way Out of No Way)

Psalm 49 - I Have Something to Say

2010-10-31T13:30:00.006-04:00

My words are for everybody.Rich and poor alike,Listen to my wisdom-I have something to say.To you, who are poor-Do not fear,Justice is coming.Realize that while the wealthyMay possess beautiful mansions,They are building their own graves.No amount of money can restore their souls-Their glittering clothes are but fancy shrouds.To you, who are rich-You are a foolish, foolish people!Your shining

I'm Breaking Out of a Rut and Into a Wonderful Breakfast Sandwich

2010-10-28T22:01:00.004-04:00

When I was consumed by my eating disorder, I lived by order and repetition. I tried to eat as little as I could get away with and when I did eat, I ate the same things, day after day after day. Then, as I got better and started grocery shopping on my own, I got into a rut where I would not buy anything unless it was on a list or a coupon. I am still working on getting out of my ruts. One way I

Spiritual Quote of the Day - "Evil need not have the final word."

2010-10-27T11:55:00.004-04:00

Although the changes we experience always involve some loss, evil need not have the final word. There are always ways to preserve life. (45, Monica A. Coleman, Making a Way Out of No Way)Unfortunately, I have a cold and feel pretty miserable, although I am excited that I got asked to preach again at my church on November 7! Hopefully, soon I will be feeling good enough to write more substantial

God is the "One Who is Known on the Journey"

2010-10-25T11:01:00.003-04:00

Yet God is not simply the destination, but one who is known on the journey. It is a journey from the life of bondage to life in the presence of God. (125, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

Atlanta Pride - Stop the Hate

2010-10-22T11:23:00.016-04:00

This is the outfit I wore to Atlanta Pride this year. That's right, it's a cute summer dress, even though Atlanta Pride is now in October. It amazes me that my country is so big and diverse that even though I was incredibly comfortable wearing a tank top, sundress, and sandals, there were some places in the United States with snow! I must say I really feel sorry for those people.Atlanta Pride

Spiritual Quote of the Day

2010-10-19T10:29:00.002-04:00

God is more than two men and a bird. ~ Sandra M. Schneider

Comments are Welcome, But Respect is a Must

2010-10-19T09:37:00.004-04:00

A recent (deleted) commenter from my last post: [...]but don't you dare tell someone they shouldnt go because of its theme. My response: I will "dare" to say what I feel I need to say, because this is my own damn blog.Well, I was initially excited today when I noticed that I had three comments for my last posting, but that excitement soon turned to irritation when I realized that these commenters

Lawrenceville's "Terror in the Square" Really is a Terror-Support Another Haunted House Instead

2010-10-17T09:40:00.006-04:00

I have no problem with most haunted houses-it's fun to get scared every once in a while. My boyfriend even works at one and if I am able to get up my courage, I may take a tour through it. (I am notoriously squeamish about haunted houses and all my friends laughed at me when they heard that Charlie works at Netherworld.) I do, however, have a problem with how many haunted houses are themed as

I Am Too Worn Out Tonight, So Read This Instead!

2010-10-14T18:42:00.002-04:00

I have had a very trying day and nothing better expresses how I feel than this piece written by my minister, from her blog, A Gracious Heresy. A Gracious Heresy: SEX:"It is so utterly simple: it ain't about who you have sex with it's about how you love, how you are in right relationship with another."

A New Pasta Dish and Silent Sunlight

2010-10-12T11:25:00.006-04:00

My parents are vacationing right now in sunny, beautiful Hawaii! That's what you get to do when you are retired, but I am stuck here at home taking care of the dog and the house. This does not usually inspire me to cook great meals, because as everybody knows, it is just not as fun to cook only for yourself. But there was one day when I went to the local farmer's market and got inspired enough to

September Books

2010-10-10T10:28:00.005-04:00

I had a super busy September and so I did not have time to read as much as I usually do. Hopefully there will be more books reviewed next month.So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish – Douglas Adams – This is the fourth in the Hitchhiker’s series and I love it. This is also the book where Arthur finally gets to fall in love and I must say I’m a sucker for the romance. I love the scene where Arthur

Godde's Wisdom

2010-10-10T00:01:00.002-04:00

Paul countered by speaking of "the wisdom of God" (which he also spoke of as "the foolishness of God" because it is the opposite of "the wisdom of this world") which "destroys the wisdom of the wise." (106, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

4 WHEEL CITY - CNN HEADLINE NEWS: INTERVIEW ON THE GLEN BECK SHOW

2010-10-08T19:04:00.002-04:00

I normally can't stand Glen Beck, but I thought this was a good segment about one of the groups that will be performing at the upcoming Expo.

FREE Event-Atlanta Abilities Expo

2010-10-08T18:29:00.003-04:00

I learned about this event from a friend's email. I'm not sure if I will be able to attend, but I think it sounds fabulous!When: October 15-17, 2010Where: the Cobb Galleria Convention Center. It’s the Atlanta Abilities Expo and it’s the leading event for people with disabilities, their families, caregiver, seniors, veterans and healthcare professionals.Admission is free to this fantastic annual

Spiritual Quote - Jesus' Alternative Wisdom

2010-10-06T21:03:00.003-04:00

That change-from having heard about God with the hearing of the ear to "beholding" God, from secondhand belief to firsthand relationship-is what the alternative wisdom of Jesus is most centrally about. (88, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

National Mental Illness Awareness Week and An Important Message from Ellen About Bullying

2010-10-05T00:04:00.000-04:00

This week is National Mental Illness Awareness Week. The teen suicides across the country remind us that queer folk have an extremely high rate for mental illness, especially for depression. There is no doubt in my mind that the rate would not be as high if being lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or otherwise queer were more accepted in our society. I once heard a trans womyn say at a conference

Plus-size models on Ellen (Crystal Renn, Kate Dillon)

2010-10-04T23:42:00.000-04:00

"However you're made is the right way for you."

Ellen on Body Image, and Beauty

2010-10-04T23:26:00.000-04:00

Spiritual Quote-God is Gracious

2010-10-04T22:20:00.006-04:00

In many of his parables and aphorisms, Jesus invited his hearers to see God not as the judge, not as the one who has requirements that must be met, not as the legitimator of conventional wisdom-but as gracious and compassionate. (82, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

"Let Us Break Bread Together" for World Communion Sunday

2010-10-02T21:54:00.002-04:00

Whoppee!!!!! As you may recall, I have wanted to do a regular feature on this blog for a very long time where I perform some music. Well, tonight I was finally victorious-I finally figured out how to upload a homemade video. I'll even share my secret: you need to download Any Video Converter-it's free! Today is the first of my videos-I hope you like it. It's me accompanying myself on the

Spiritual Quote of the Day

2010-09-29T09:02:00.004-04:00

Indeed, his words "Call no man on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven" may very well be directed against the patriarchal family, which as the primary social unit in that world was a microcosm of a hierarchical system. If so, this is a fascinating instance of Jesus using the image of God as Father in a way that subverted patriarchy. (82, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again

Spiritual Quote-Where is the Kingdom of Godde?

2010-09-23T12:37:00.003-04:00

Moreover, the Kingdom is not somewhere else; rather it is among you, inside you, and outside you. Neither is it some time in the future, for it is here, spread out on the earth; people just do not see it. (81, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

The Sandwich Snob

2010-09-22T19:52:00.002-04:00

I absolutely love a good sandwich! I guess you could call me a sandwich snob. I like my sandwiches to have fancy breads and fresh ingredients, which is why I was very skeptical of Checkers' mushroom cheeseburger. Normally I would not have even thought of eating one, but my boyfriend practically lives on them and so I wanted to see if there was any chance that I would like them too. When I told

Take A Deep Breath

2010-09-16T22:41:00.004-04:00

When conventional wisdom appears in religious form, God is imaged primarily as lawgiver or judge. [...]God becomes the one whom we must satisfy, the one whose requirements must be met. (Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time,78)Take a deep breath. You do not have to meet any requirement in order to deserve the rights of humanity. You are valued. You are enough. You do not have to be

August Reading List

2010-09-15T12:03:00.009-04:00

Omnipotence and Other Theological Mistakes by Charles Hartshorne – A tough read! I had a lot of trouble getting through the first chapter. I kept on rereading passages and finally I said, “Screw it,” and continued reading. After the first chapter, the reading was a lot easier and I ended up enjoying the book. I had a severe anxiety attack for the two weeks I was attempting the first chapter (

Spiritual Quote of the Day - Live Life Not According to the Performance Principle

2010-09-14T13:17:00.003-04:00

Life according to the performance principle is also life according to the conformity principle: ironically we try to be outstanding-to stand out-by conforming to the standards that our culture values most highly. (77, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)I have experienced this principle often in my life! I can tell that I am living according to the performance principle when I

Wait Until the Miracle Happens

2010-09-11T16:43:00.003-04:00

I believe that this week is National Suicide Prevention Week and I know for a fact that yesterday was National Suicide Prevention Day, so I feel the need to say a few things about preventing suicide. My main point is this: the thoughts of suicide, if one is having them, will always eventually go away. There is a saying in recovery groups that says, "Wait until the miracle happens." My life is a

Psalm 48 & a Litany-Take Time to Listen!

2010-09-10T12:33:00.007-04:00

Great is our GoddeAnd oh, how beautiful!Godde's kindom dazzlesWith divine beauty.Let us serve there forever!Rulers passed by Godde's countryAnd were shocked into silence.They were held captive by wonderAnd they quivered and quaked.Like a womyn in labor,They were overtaken by fear and pain.Like a strong ship crashed by the wind,A ruler's power does not compare to Godde's.Despite bureacracies that

Because of My Friends' Deaths, I Will More Fully Embrace Life

2010-08-23T10:55:00.005-04:00

Thursday night, I received some horrible news-a woman that is a regular attendee of my eating disorders anonymous group died due to complications of anorexia. I did not know her extremely well, but she always seemed really nice and kind. I have heard it said about her that she was willing to help everyone else except herself, which is really sad. Fortunately, I was at one of my support groups

In Our Own Voice Update

2010-08-19T12:05:00.003-04:00

Ack! It feels as though I've been away from blogging for months, even though it's been less than a week. My days are so busy that a day feels like a week and a week feels like a month! This past weekend was no exception as I attended training for NAMI's In Our Own Voice program. The program was intense, but I am very glad I went. There were about fourteen people there and we spent time

Invite Your Legislative to The Georgia Behavioral Health Legislative Caucus

2010-08-13T12:14:00.007-04:00

From a NAMIGA email:The Georgia Behavioral Health Caucus is fast approaching. It is on Thursday, August 19, 2010. NAMI Georgia needs you to invite your legislator to attend. They have received an invitation from NAMI Georgia in late July. Hearing from you now would help them make the decision to attend. Please pass this along to your members and urge them to contact their legislators

Spiritual Quote of the Day

2010-08-12T13:24:00.003-04:00

As a teacher of wisdom, Jesus was not primarily a teacher of information (what to believe) or morals (how to behave), but a teacher of a way or path of transformation. [...] From a life in the world of conventional wisdom to a life centered in God. (75, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

Coconut Pecan Chicken

2010-08-11T20:37:00.006-04:00

How my cooking life has changed! When I first started cooking, the only thing I would do to my chicken is saute it in a little bit of olive oil. Now I soak it in butter and cover it with nuts and coconut! Life is much sweeter with recovery added into the mix. A week ago I decided to try a recipe that once again covers chicken in coconut, but instead of dunking the chicken in butter, I covered it

Psalm 47

2010-08-10T22:04:00.003-04:00

Clap!Shout!Godde is victorious!Presidents,Prime ministers,Kings and queens:Gather round andWorship the Most High One.Godde is divine, not you!So let us singAnd shout praise forever.It is love that rules our hearts!*******************************To compare it to the original, go here.

Spiritual Quote of the Day

2010-08-09T22:48:00.005-04:00

In Christ there is neither straight nor gay. (59, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)This statement is an add-on to one of my favorite verses, which so happened to be a part of the lectionary the last time I preached: Galatians 3:23-29Before faith came, we were under the constraint of the Law, locked in untl the faith that was coming would be revealed. In other words, the Law was

Quote of the Day

2010-08-08T11:13:00.003-04:00

Compassion, not holiness, is the dominant quality of God, and is therefore to be the ethos of the community that mirrors God. (54, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

Is It a Chocolate Cake or a Spare Tire? Either Way It's Yummy!

2010-08-07T14:24:00.005-04:00

The first Sunday of every month at my church is a potluck supper. When I was thinking about what I should make, I remembered that I still had a lot of packets of instant pudding and decided that I wanted to make another pudding cake. I also decided that I would not make another poke cake, because I knew that there must be many ways to incorporate pudding into cake. I looked up some recipes online

Spiritual Quote of the Day

2010-08-06T21:17:00.003-04:00

And to complete the imitatio dei, to "be compassionate as God is compassionate" is to be like a womb as God is like a womb. It is to feel as God feels and to act as God acts: in a lifegiving and nourishing way. "To be compassionate" is what is meant elsewhere in the New Testament by the somewhat more abstract command "to love." According to Jesus, compassion is to be the central quality of a

People with Developmental Disabilities are Proud Too

2010-08-06T11:22:00.005-04:00

Recently I had a job where I helped take care of an autistic boy during the day. He loves to go to Wal-Mart, so often we would go there and look at the toys in the toy section. This boy is mainly nonverbal, but is still very good at communicating his wants and needs. As we would walk through the store, he would make noises that probably seemed like nonsense to the average person and it occurred

Quote of the Day

2010-08-04T20:50:00.003-04:00

I use inclusive language not as a matter of "political correctness" but because of its intrinsic importance. (18, Marcus Borg, Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time)

July Books

2010-08-02T21:19:00.009-04:00

“Phule’s Company” by Robert Asprin – This is the first book in a science fiction series, but I probably will not be reading the others. It’s a fun, lighthearted book, which was sort of its problem-there was no real conflict! This book was certainly not deep at all, nor was it a page turner. It really seemed more like a book I would have liked when I was a preteen.“The Secret Life of Bees” by Sue

Psalm 46

2010-08-01T21:28:00.003-04:00

Earthquakes demolish,Storms flood,Tsunamis ruin,But my faith stands firmFor God is with us.Chaos seems to reignAs countries are levelledBy war and natural disaster,But my faith stands firm,For God is with us.God is in the tearsAnd the pain of the downtrodden.The Holy One hears our cry.Look! There is hopeFor our God uses the earthTo make us come together-As the land has been crumpled,So may we

I Feel Good! Finally!

2010-07-31T00:07:00.002-04:00

This is an outfit I wore to church a few Sundays ago. My church is actually very laid back-most people wear jeans, but I like dressing up for church. I took a picture of me in this outfit in an effort to raise my self-esteem. My mom bought me this dress and I feel very conflicted by it. It's form fitting and then loose in all the right places. I feel cute in it and I always get a lot of

Quote of the Day

2010-07-30T23:05:00.003-04:00

We feel so helpless and so little in the great stillness, when the dark trees rustle in the night wind. There are so many ghosts about, and their silent sighs make us feel so sad. Let us gather together in the great cities, and light huge bonfires of a million gas-jets, and shout and sing together and feel brave. (Three Men in a Boat, 46)

Quote of the Day

2010-07-28T21:57:00.005-04:00

Through the heartfelt mercies of our God, God's Sunrise will break in upon us, shining on those in the darkness, those sitting in the shadow of death, then showing us the way, one foot at a time, down the path of peace. (The Message Bible, 121)Oh, how I long for peace right now! I am caught in the throes of terrible anxiety, which is affecting my work, my health, and my peace of mind. What